A new type of advanced sensor enables detection of mildew or red spider mites before the human eye can detect the infestation. This so-called ‘electric nose’ is currently under further development for application in practice. The sensor is the result of collaboration of Wageningen UR Greenhouse Horticulture, Warwick University and HortiMaX.
The electric nose has proven its value in a laboratory situation. The sensor is emitting a signal in case of a starting infestation of a plant. Together with Wageningen UR Greenhouse Horticulture, scientists of Warwick University are now testing the reliability of the signal in practical rose cultivation, where the occurrence of mildew and red spider mites is being monitored.
“If the sensor can indeed in an early stage localise the occurrence of a pest or disease in a greenhouse, we will continue further work on the system.” explains project leader Steven Driever. “A handy device must be developed for use of the sensor in the greenhouse. And it is also necessary to transform the colleted data in such a way that the grower can make the right decision. The ultimate goal is a further reduction of the use of crop protection products by being able to take the correct measures at an early stage.”
The study is being carried out in the context of EUPHOROS, a four-year collaboration project between European universities and the industry. The project is financed by the European Union and is aimed at the development of sustainable cultivation systems under glass. Realisation of monitoring and management systems is one of the objectives of the project.